Sophia Delgado
Gel nail lifting is a common issue for many people. There are several ways to repair gel nail lifting, from applying a gel top coat to using a nail overlay system. It is important to consider the condition of the nail and the cause of the lifting before deciding on a repair method. This may involve taking a creative approach, especially if the nail is severely compromised. To prevent gel nail lifting, it is recommended to keep nails moisturized, use thin coats of polish, and allow nails to breathe between manicures.
How to repair lifting gel nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Causes of lifting gel nails | Frequent nail appointments, long-lasting gel manicures, damage to the nail bed, nail dehydration, thick layers of polish, and the use of clippers and files can all cause gel nails to lift. |
| Prevention methods | Get gel manicures removed by professionals, allow nails to rest and rehydrate between appointments, use thin coats of polish, and avoid picking or lifting nails. |
| Repair methods | Remove the lifted piece by filing it down flat with a coarse grid file or an Efile, buff the nail, apply a gel overlay, or use a product like Kokoist's Gel Fixee to repair and strengthen the nail. |
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What You'll Learn
Repairing gel nails with a silk wrap
Step 1: Clean and Prep the Nail
Ensure your nail is free of dust and debris. If you have gel on your nail, file it down to leave a thin layer of gel on top of the nail. This will help hold everything together.
Step 2: Trim the Silk Wrap
Trim the silk wrap to fit the area of your nail that needs repairing. Use L-shaped tweezers to lay the silk wrap onto your nail plate, avoiding touching the wrap with your fingers.
Step 3: Apply Resin
Allow the resin to dry completely or use an accelerating spray. Then, dab resin over the wrap until it blends seamlessly into your nail.
Step 4: Buff and File
Buff the nail with a 180-grit file to create an even surface. Then, file and shape your nail to ensure an even sidewall where the crack lies. Cleanse your nail once more.
Step 5: Apply Gel
At this point, you can apply gel on top of the silk wrap, just like you would with a regular manicure.
Step 6: Maintain and Care
Silk wrap nails are fairly low maintenance, but it is important to avoid picking or peeling off the silk wrap if you experience lifting. This will cause serious damage to your natural nail. Additionally, it is recommended to wear gloves while cleaning with chemicals to protect your nails.
By following these steps, you can repair your gel nails with a silk wrap and enjoy strong and durable nails that look natural.
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Using a gel with nylon fibres
If your gel nails are lifting, it's important to take a step back and analyse the cause of the issue. Signs of flexing, perforations, or tears indicate that the nail is weakened and unstable. To repair lifting gel nails, you can use a gel with nylon fibres, such as Kokoist's Fixee Gel. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a gel with nylon fibres to repair lifting gel nails:
Prepare the Nail
Start by thoroughly preparing the nail. Reduce any perforations or tears using a ceramic or diamond bit to create a smooth surface. This step is crucial to ensure the gel with nylon fibres adheres properly.
Apply the Gel with Nylon Fibres
Using a high-quality gel brush, apply the gel with nylon fibres, such as Fixee Gel, to the designated area. Ensure that the application is smooth and even to avoid the need for shaping with a file before the overlay. This gel will provide strength and stability to the nail, preventing further lifting.
Apply a Base Gel
Once the gel with nylon fibres is in place, apply a base gel or a base and builder gel over it. This will provide additional support and protection to the nail. Allow the gels to cure properly before proceeding to the next step.
Finish with a Top Coat
Complete the repair process by applying a thin layer of top coat over the base gel. This will seal the nail, prevent chipping, and extend the lifespan of your manicure. Remember to keep your hands dry during the curing process for best results.
Aftercare
To maintain the health of your nails and prevent future lifting, invest in a good cuticle oil and keep your hands moisturised. Apply the cuticle oil twice a day to boost circulation and promote nail growth. Additionally, avoid using clippers and nail files, as they can break the seal and lead to lifting and peeling.
Remember, if your nails are severely damaged, it's best to seek professional advice or consider giving your nails a break from gel manicures to allow them to recover.
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Applying a gel top coat
Firstly, it is important to assess the condition of your nails. If there is existing gel polish, it is recommended to remove the entire piece that has lifted by filing it down flat. Avoid cutting pieces off, as this can cause further lifting. Use a coarse grid file, such as a 120 or 150 grit, to file the nails thin and even. If you have an e-file, you can use it for a faster and more efficient filing process.
Once the nails are filed down, the next step is to buff the nails to smooth out any damage and create an even surface. You can use an extra-fine ceramic cone drill bit to get closer to the natural nail and ensure a smooth finish. Repeat this process for all ten nails to ensure consistency.
After buffing, you can proceed with the gel top coat application. Start by applying a thin layer of the gel top coat, ensuring it is smooth and even. Thick layers should be avoided as they are more prone to peeling and lifting. Allow the first layer to dry completely before applying a second thin layer if needed.
Finally, finish with a layer of cuticle oil to nourish and protect your nails and skin. Cuticle oils, such as those containing jojoba oil and vitamin E, can boost circulation, promote nail growth, and maintain healthy nails and skin.
Remember to allow adequate time for each layer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. Following these steps should help you achieve a well-applied gel top coat that extends the life of your manicure and prevents lifting.
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Removing gel nails with an E-file
Start with a fine-sanding band to buff off the top coat of the gel polish. Use light pressure and an RPM of 7,000 to 10,000 to remove the shine. Be careful not to press too hard on the nail surface. Using a sanding band is much quicker than using a hand file.
Next, wrap the nail with acetone-soaked cotton and seal it with foil. Allow the nail to soak for 5 to 10 minutes. After soaking, gently wipe the nails with a soft, lint-free towel.
Now, use a MANIPro Techtool Pusher to gently push away the gel polish. Be very gentle to avoid removing the top layer of the nail. Use this opportunity to push the cuticle back, as this will help with the next step.
Repeat the previous step with the sanding bands, using light pressure and 7,000 RPMs around the cuticle area. If there are any enhancements on the nails, you can remove them using a MANIPro 3-in-1 or 5-in-1 Carbide Bit. The MANIPro 3-in-1 Carbide Bit is specifically designed to work around the cuticle and shape the nail without needing to change bits.
Specialty carbide bits can be used to remove the gel polish, as long as there is a barrier layer, such as a double base coat or a thin layer of builder gel, to protect the natural nail. Specialty carbide teeth, also known as flutes, are less aggressive than standard carbide bits, making them a safer option for removal.
After removing most of the colour, use a 100% diamond cuticle bit, such as the Unicorn bit, to remove the remaining colour and exfoliate the cuticle. Once the cuticle has been exfoliated on both sides, the nail is ready for colour application.
It is important to note that your client may be hesitant to use an E-file for removal. Reassure them that it is a safe method when performed by a trained professional.
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Rebalancing soft potted gel nail systems
When dealing with soft potted gel nail systems, it's important to understand the rebalancing process. Unlike hard gel products, rebalancing soft gel nails involves smoothing out any imperfections on the natural nail to ensure a flawless gel overlay. Here's a detailed guide on rebalancing soft potted gel nail systems:
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Before beginning the rebalancing process, take a moment to analyse the nail. Look for tell-tale signs such as flexing, perforations, or tears, which could be causing the lifting. By understanding the cause, you can tailor your approach to effectively address the issue.
Step 2: Remove and Shorten
To rebalance soft potted gel nails, you'll need to remove the existing gel overlay. Use an Efile for efficiency, or opt for hand-filing with a coarse grid file if you don't have an Efile. File the nails down thin and flat, being careful not to dig into the natural nail. Shorten the nails to a rough draft of the desired length, as this will make it easier to rebuild the enhancement.
Step 3: Smooth and Rebalance
The rebalancing process involves smoothing out the natural nail to create an even surface. Ensure there are no valleys or low points, as these imperfections can compromise the gel overlay application. Use a gentle carbide bit, such as the Carbide Cone (Corn) Medium Grit from Nashlynails, to maintain an even angle parallel to the nail. As you get closer to the natural nail, switch to a ceramic bit to avoid over-filing. Brush off any dust before proceeding.
Step 4: Cuticle Care
Cuticle care is crucial for healthy nails and skin. Use a gentle cuticle bit, such as the Diamond Safety Sciver, to carefully clean up the cuticle area. Nourish the cuticles with nutrient-rich cuticle oil, such as Famous Names Dadi Oil, to boost circulation and promote nail growth.
Step 5: Prepare for Overlay
With the nails smoothed and rebalanced, you can now prepare for the gel overlay application. Ensure your nails are clean and dry before proceeding. Apply a thin, smooth layer of base gel or a base and builder gel to the natural nail, allowing the fibres to make direct contact with any breakage.
Step 6: Apply Gel Overlay
Finish by applying the gel overlay according to the manufacturer's instructions. Remember that soft gel formulas have excellent adhesion properties and can be self-levelled, allowing you to create the desired nail shape. Avoid making the extensions too long, as this can cause stress on the nails and lead to continued lifting.
Remember that proper nail care and maintenance are essential to prevent lifting and maintain the health of your nails. Allow your nails to breathe between gel applications and consider using cuticle oil to keep them strong and healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
If your gel nails start to lift, it is best to leave them alone and not pull or peel them off. Instead, wait for your next appointment to get them professionally removed.
Gel manicures should last for a maximum of two to four weeks before needing to be redone. Waiting too long to get them redone can cause weakened nails and bacterial growth due to trapped moisture.
To prevent gel nails from lifting, it is recommended to keep your hands dry on the day of your manicure and to apply thin, smooth layers of polish. It is also important to give your nails a break between gel applications and to keep them moisturized with cuticle oil.
Some signs that your gel nails may start to lift include perforations, tears, and flexing of the nail. If you notice any of these issues, it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage.
If your gel nails are severely compromised, you may need to consider a full coverage tip or a nail overlay to hold the nail in place and prevent further lifting. This will act as a "'brace' and provide more support than a half tip.
